Kamonyi, 24 October, 2024 – Today, Rwanda joins the global community in observing the World Polio Day under the theme “One Day, One Focus: Ending Polio.” The day comes at a time the country marks over three decades without a reported polio case, with a renewed call for increased vigilance to protect future generations from the disease.
The celebrations at the national level are held in Runda Sector, Kamonyi District, emphasizing the critical importance of vaccination in polio elimination and safeguarding children’s health.
“For over 30 years, Rwanda has not reported a single case of polio, a testament of the country’s dedication to child vaccination and improved good hygiene practices across both rural and urban areas. While we are proud of our achievements in maintaining a polio-free status, we must remain vigilant in protecting our children through sustained vaccination efforts and promoting good hygiene,” said Prof. Claude Mambo Muvunyi, Director General of the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC).
The World Polio Day offers an opportunity to honor the unwavering dedication of healthcare workers, volunteers, and partners who continue to play an integral role in the fight against polio. Through extensive vaccination campaigns and strong community engagement, Rwanda has successfully maintained its polio-free status. However, global challenges persist, reminding us that the fight against polio must remain a top priority.
The celebration activities will feature interactive sessions, educational exhibits, and opportunities for community members to engage with health professionals on the importance of vaccination and disease prevention. Throughout the Polio Awareness Month, additional mobilisation efforts will be conducted via radio, television, and online platforms to raise awareness among parents about the vaccination schedule and to promote higher hygiene standards for children and the community in general.
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